Spring Guide 2014

Saturday, April 19, 2014 • A Special Supplement to the

Spring Guide…April 19, 2014…Page 2

(763) 263-3602 FAX (763) 263-845829 South Lake Street,

Box 276, Big Lake, MN 55309

The West Sherburne Tribune serves as the Official Newspaper for The City of BigLake; the Townships of Big Lake andOrrock; the School District of Big Lake. The Tribune is published every Saturday& delivered within the communities ofBig Lake, Elk River & Monticello by ECMDistribution, 4095 Coon Rapids Blvd.,

Coon Rapids, MN 55433. Telephone: 241-8146.

COLOR ADS: The Tribune is not responsi-ble for any misprints in color or registra-tion problems beyond our control-once

pages are sent to press.

Gary W. MeyerEditor & Publisher

Sue EmberlandAdvertising Sales

Susan NagorskiAdvertising Sales

Mary MayerGraphic Designer

Ken FrancisStaff Writer

Jennifer EdwardsStaff Writer

Chris MeyerAccounting

Gail EvansOffice Manager

OUR STAFF:

Website:www.westsherburnetribune.come-mail:[email protected]

Just off Hwy 10 • Big Lake • 763-263-3400Reg. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7:30am-5pm, Sat. 8am-Noon, Sun. Closed

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In This GuideTelecommunications...Page 4BL home building...Page 7

Steve’s Nursery is 30...Page 8Gary W. Meyer’s column...Page 10Commerce energy advice...Page 11

Save with your roof...Page 12New color trends...Page 13

Insulation cautions...Page 14DSIRE...Page 15

Selecting Contractors 16Asbestos 17

New technology 18Paint tools matter 19

Home theater 20Energy efficiency 21

Mold and windows 22Your entryway 23

Stories:

Advertiser’s Index:All Elements Inc....Page 13

American Family Ins....Page 20Annandale State Bank....Page 9Audio Communications....Page 3

B & D Plumbing....Page 10Becker Sod....Page 10

Big Lake Hardware Hank....Page 5Big Lake Lumber....Page 2

Bitzer Garage Doors....Page 18Bob & Judy’s Farm Market....Page 14

Bogart, Pederson & Assoc., Inc.....Page 18Boone’s Custom Cabinets.....Page 12C & S Blacktopping, Inc....Page 18

Chuba Company....Page 22Collegeworks....Back Page

Custom Door Sales Inc....Page 15Elk River Municipal Utilities....Page 14

Grand Rental Station....Page 17Greenscapes Landscaping....Page 17Hassan Gravel & Sand....Page 19Haus Construction Inc....Page 5

Edina Realty - Heitz Group....Page 10J&A Glass Inc....Page 17

Ken Geroux Construction....Back Page KleinBank.....Page 6

Liberty Savings Bank....Page 23Lofgren Construction....Page 3

Long & Son....Page 5Merit Drywall, Inc....Page 5

Metro Paving....Page 19Midway Iron & Metal Co....Page 19

MNsota Real Estate....Page 16Omann Brothers Paving Inc....Page 21

Plaisted Companies....Pages 9 & Back PagePreferred Title, Inc....Page 23Ray’s Abbey Carpet....Page 9

Reliable Energy Solutions, Inc....Page 21Schillewaert Landscaping....Page 19Sherburne County Taxes....Page 10

Sherburne County Haz. Waste....Page 11TerraCare....Page 6

Trueman Welters Powersports....Page 18Wausau Homes....Page 22

WestAir....Page 16Wright Hennepin Security....Page 14

Our StaffGary W. Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Editor & PublisherSue Emberland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Advertising SalesSusan Nagorski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Advertising SalesMary Mayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Graphic DesignerKen Francis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Staff WriterJennifer Edwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Staff WriterChris Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .AccountingGail Evans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Office Manager

Office: 763-263-3602 • Fax: 763-263-8458e:[email protected] • www.westsherburnetribune.com

On the COver: (top) Steve eid owner of Steve’s elkriver nursery. (Photo by Gary W. Meyer) (Bottom) AudioCommunications Proprietor dick Backlund and Salespersondiana Olson. (Photo by Jennifer edwards). (Background)Panoramic photo of a wooded development.


Big Lakers have manychoices to get connected

pany until it was sold to Iowa Telecom andresold to Windstream a few years ago.

Now based out of state, Windstream pro-vides digital voice, broadband, and entertain-ment service for approximately 3.3 millioncustomer lines in 18 states, Alabama,Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky,Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska,North Carolina, South Carolina, NewMexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma,Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Texas.

They offer online assistance with installa-tion, configuration, and management ofinternet service. Customers can check forfirewall, antivirus, system updates, andrepair issues preventing an Internet connec-tion.

Windstream offers 3, 6 12 and 24 Mbpsspeed internet connections with or withoutphone service at lifetime guaranteed prices.It is also possible to purchase equipmentfrom Windstream and make payments on itover six months. For anything over 12 Mbps,customers must purchase a high-speedmodem. There are no locked-in contracts.

Visit them at www.windstream.com formore information.

The downside is, there are no local sales orsupport people to talk to if the service fails.For many years, this company has been thesole provider of these services.

Now there are some alternatives, especial-ly for residents of the cities of Big Lake andMonticello.

CableFor them there is an alternative. Charter

offers cable television, internet and unlimit-ed local and long distance calling with noadded fees.

Download speeds up to 30 Mbps, 10 timesfaster than DSL, with bandwidth to supportmore devices than other internet providers,Charter offers a free internet modem andsecurity services, which includes automaticdetection of viruses, hackers, and spam.They will also pay up to $500 in early termi-nation fees for anyone stuck in a contract.

Internet service alone costs around $40 permonth. Bundle internet, phone and cable tel-evision for around $30 each per month. In

addition, Charter has an office located inBuffalo and local technicians to help withany service issues.

“We recommend people go on line andenter their address to see if they are in ourservice area or not,” said Charter SeniorManager Kimberly Noetzel.

“Our trusted advisor team is available tohelp our customers 24 hours per day, sevendays per week, 365 days per year,” she said.

Find them online at www.charter.com tocompare plans and costs and find out if theirservice is available in your neighborhood.

SatelliteFor those who dwell outside the city lim-

its, Dick Backlund of AudioCommunications has satellite options avail-able for homeowners.

Dish Network offers all the channels cablenetworks offer via satellite, starting ataround $20 per month for their basic pack-age, up to $45 per month for 290 channels,with the “hopper” for recording programsand skipping commercials.

Audio Communications is introducingExede, high speed satellite internet servicewhich offers 12 Mbps downstream and 3Mbps for uploading. Fees are determined bythe amount of use rather than speed of serv-ice.

The basic package starts at around $50 permonth for 10 GB of usage and goes up toaround $130 per month for 25 GB. All pack-ages include 10 e-mail addresses and the firstthree months of anti-virus, anti-spyware soft-ware with installation by a certified techni-cian. They aso offer phone systems.

Visit them online at www.exede.com formore information or stop into AudioCommunications in the Big Lake IndustrialPark to talk to their knowledgeable salesstaff.

In Monticello, Stargate Satellite offersDish Network and online internet servicesvia satellite. Find owner Kevin Hall at thecorner of Hwy. 25 and Broadway. Monticelloalso offers Fibernet phone, television andinternet throughout the city.AUdiO COMMUniCAtiOnS of Big Lake offers access to satel-

lite television and high speed internet. Pictured are Proprietor dickBacklund and Salesperson diana Olson. (Photo by Jennifer edwards).

Jennifer EdwardsStaff Writer

Big Lake residents have some alterna-tives these days when it comes totelecommunications systems for theirhomes.

The old days of one telephone compa-ny having a monopoly on services are

gone, at least in more populated areas.The computer and modern day technolo-gy have blown the lid off the communi-cations industry, opening up possibilitiesour forefathers could never have imag-ined.

Windstream took over Connections,Etc., a family owned local phone com-


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By Ken FrancisStaff Writer

Thinking of building a home?Or thinking of buying a piece of land to

build a home?There are a few things to consider before

taking that first step. Not all lots are build-able, and some may not be right for thetype of house you may be thinking ofbuilding.

Sherburne County Zoning AdministratorNancy Riddle says there are rules that haveto be followed when deciding to build ahouse outside cities - and it’s not justbuilding codes.

One way to find out whether a piece ofland is buildable is to visit the county’szoning office.

“Initially there will be discussionbetween staff and the person about whatthey want to do and what kind of housethey want to build,” says Riddle.

“There’s one person in our office wholooks at the site drawing - where the houseand septic system is going on the property.Then there’s another person who looks atenvironmental issues. Is it on a shorelandor a lake? Is there a wetland?”

There are different rules about how closea house can be to a lake, river or stream.There are also rules about how much sur-face area of the lot can be built on or pavednear a body of water.

Riddle says there are different rules fordifferent areas of the county depending onwhat the property is zoned for.

“Depending on what zone you’re in -general rural, agricultural district... thereare different setbacks from the propertyline,” she says.

The county also has regulations abouthow close the foundation of a home can beto the water table. Many areas ofSherburne County have a high water table,making it difficult to locate a septic sys-tem. In some cases, homes can’t have abasement because of potential floodingissues.

“We never just like to say yes you havea buildable lot, because it depends on what

type of soils you have,” says Riddle.All of those issues are discussed up front

to make sure a specific lot won’t haveproblems later.

Riddle says there are also issues withaccess to the property. Someone mightown a beautiful wooded lot that is nowherenear a road. Without road access, the coun-ty can’t issue a building permit.

“They need legal access to a publicroad,” she says.

Some people have an easement to crossother people’s land to get to their property.But there are cases where nothing aboutaccess was ever recorded.

“Sometimes we run into people whohave been crossing a property for years

and never had a legal easement,” saysRiddle. “They have to show us that theyhave a legal right to go across that proper-ty.”

And, some townships require a roadaccess permit to connect a driveway to theroad.

In the majority of cases, people whocome to the county zoning office lookingto build don’t have major issues to dealwith. Or, zoning staff can work with prop-erty owners about how to resolve issues.

Riddle says a good idea for anyoneinterested in building a new home is tocontact a builder.

“Most of them already know a lot of therules,” she says. “They’re so used to deal-

ing with these things, usually it’s easier forthem to come here.”

Once the lot and plans are approved, thecounty issues a building permit. It is post-ed at the building site. Every time a differ-ent part of the construction is completed,the county building inspector has to signoff on the work.

“For each inspection they call in we goout and inspect it. We usually want 24-hour notice,” says Riddle. “Once every-thing passes, then we can issue a certificateof occupancy.”

For more information about the entireprocess, contact the Sherburne CountyZoning Office at 763-765-4450.

Lots to consider when building a house

Panoramic photo of a wooded development.


By Gary W. MeyerEditor

It used to be - Steve Eid remembers - thatlandscaping consisted of a bunch of treesand shrubs, spaced nicely, in front of thefamily residence.

Now, it’s quite different.As peoples’ tastes have leaned to wide-

spread use of the yard - the back yard - thathas become the focal point for often-extravagant displays of stone and livingthings.

Eid, entering his 30th year as owner andlandscape artist at Steve’s Elk RiverNursery, sees the switch from front tobackyard as a main focal point for land-scaping, as the key element of change inhis industry over the years.

He’s put in a few yards - and touched up

many more - aswell as commer-cial work - toknow what he’stalking about.

“The biggestchange in the lastfive to 10 yearshas been the out-doors living areas- the kitchens, thepavers, the flag-stone, the retainingwalls - along withthe live product,”he said.

And he esti-mates the sharebetween hardscape(the manufacturedproducts) vs. thegreenscape isabout 50-50 now.

“And there hasbeen so much vari-ety of hardscapematerials,” hesays. “There are

now so many manufactured products madeto look like natural products.”

It makes for a lot of convenience andvariety in adopting a landscape project forhome owners. And fun, too.

Landscaping near the water has explod-ed, he says.

“People want to preserve the beach sandor the rock. And the regulations (from theDNR) are stronger, but are beneficial to theproperty,” he said.

Work around the water and drier yardshas allowed his crews the use of naturalplantings with flowers and native prairiegrasses. They are hardy, live through harshwinters, and subsist on little rainfall.

“And these plantings will get bigger asthe spaces in the backyards get bigger andwater is less available,” he said.

He highly recommends plots of naturalnative prairie grasses and flowers.

Half of the BusinessOver the years, the landscape division

has consisted about half of Steve’s ElkRiver Nursery business, the remainderbeing retail from his store on Hwy. 10, fourmiles east of Big Lake.

When they got their business underwayin 1985, Steve’s Nursery enjoyed boomyears of retail, as there were few on thenorthwest side of the Twin Cities.

In the 1980’s and 1990’s, town homesbecame very popular - and his crews founda lot of work detailing projects aroundthem.

With the housing boom of the mid-90’s,things flourished. The box stores hadn’tgrown yet, “and it gave us a good chanceto grow.”

“All of a sudden, we had gone to threelandscaping crews and we were scurryingto keep from getting behind schedule. Andthe size of projects grew with that, too.”

But the retail end of things has changedover the last 20 years. The onset of the boxstores offering significant discounts onretail products affected his business.

Still, his philosophy about treating theretail customer has not changed. Whetherthey want one flower, or are looking toexpand things in the yard, they are animportant customer.

And his staff treats customers that way,whether they want help arranging productin the yard are intent on doing it them-selves.

“Most landscape project owners arelooking for design and installation,” hesaid. And that will occur beginning inApril and running into November.

“We have a program to fit their budget,”he says. “A variety of plant sizes to help fittheir budget.”

And he does the listening.He Started Early

Steve was a junior in high school at

Willmar in the summer of 1974. Hethought he liked working with plants, so hetook a job with a nursery in that town.

“It was entry level work. But I just likedworking with plants,” he said. It lead towork on a small landscape crew.

He attended junior college in Willmarthen was off to the University ofMinnesota School of Horticulture in St.Paul, where he graduated in 1978.

In 1982, he had the opportunity to begina landscape crew out of the back ofLeonard DeChene’s nursery and in 1985,purchased DeChene’s businesses, locatedwhere it is today.

Help Is NearEvery business owner wants a son or

daughter who loves it as he does - andcould step in someday to take over things.

It’s like that with Steve and his son,Beau. Beau has actually been with thebusiness since 1985, working part-time inSteve Continued On Page 9

Steve’s Nurserycelebrating 30 years

A GOOd ShAre OF landscapeprojects now days have a 50-50 mix-ture of hardscape (manufacturedproduct) and greenscape (trees,shrubs and lawn). the explosion ofman-made products to look like nat-ural items has caused for lots ofdiversity in landscape plans. (Photosby Gary W. Meyer)

Steve eid, celebrating his 30th year as owner ofSteve’s elk river nursery, at his drafting bank.


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A GOOd ShAre OF landscapeprojects now days have a 50-50 mix-ture of hardscape (manufacturedproduct) and greenscape (trees,shrubs and lawn). the explosion ofman-made products to look like nat-ural items has caused for lots ofdiversity in landscape plans. (Photosby Gary W. Meyer)

between school sessions and fulltime sincehis graduation from North Dakota StateUniversity with a horticulture degree.

Beau is lead man on the job for the land-scaping work.

“And he’s expected to help with ourlandscape design,” Steve said.

As for the future?

“First, we’ve been blessed for the 29years here. This is our 30th year.

“We’ve been treated very well by ourcustomers. We hope to have many more.”

Steve’s Nursery can be reached at 763-441-3090, or at his website,www.steveselkrivernursery.com.

Steve Continued From Page 8__________________________________


REAL ESTATE TAXES ARE DUE MAY 15TH

Sherburne CountyAUDITOR/TREASURER

diAne ArnOLd

Sherburne County Auditor/Treasurer Diane Arnold would like to remind taxpayers that the first half of theirReal Estate taxes for 2014 are due on or before Thurs. May 15th. Postmarks are due on or before the 15th,but a Penalty will be assessed after that date. There is an after hours drop-box by the WEST entrance (doorB) of the Government Center. Questions? Call (763) 765-4350 or 1-800-438-0575

Sherburne County Land Records & Property Information On-Line at www.co.sherburne.mn.us• Property Assessment & Tax Searches (by parcel ID or address) • Plats/RLS Search • Print Tax Statement• Maps & Aerial Views • Property Tax Payment Options • County Recorder “Land Title Information” • Zoning “County Ordinances” • Zoning “Building Permits Issued” • Direct Link to “Property/Value & Taxes

The Sherburne County website is continually being updated to give you easy access to awide range of information. Everything you’ve been looking for... right at your fingertips.• Links to State Agency Websites • Links to City & Township Websites • Voting Precinct Boundaries & Polling Places

Chuck HeitzRealtor

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Arm of the lawnot far away for lot owners

I have aproperty inthe township,on the ElkRiver.

It’s a beauti-ful, quietplace - a courteous place where man andnature can co-exist. Song birds and deer,an occasional bear brushing about forberries, a wonderful wildflower patch Iplanted last fall. Am anxiously awaiting itsstunning assembly of colors and shapesthis summer.

Out back, alongside the gently-flowingElk River, is where the real peace at heartoccurs. Fish swim, snapping turtles browseabout the surface. Ducks and geese and anoccasional canoe or kayakers.

But my lot is about 15 feet above theriver - and the bank is treacherous tomaneuver about.

How about a deck, or aladder, to get down tothe water’s surface?

Not so fast, saysthe people fromElk River.

The countyplanning andzoning adminis-tration (I suspectthey do this eachspring) recently mailedout an information piece onmanning shoreland lots andimprovements to them.

Mostly, it’s about things you can’t do toyour own property. (Then, maybe there’san issue as to who owns that bank doingdown to the river.)

Shoreland Rules, they’re called. And thecounty will rigorously protect the rights ofothers by ensuring I don’t do anything tothat bank or encroaching backyard to vio-late others’ rights.

If I were a fighting man, I would storminto the county planners’ office ad demand

an interpretation of every one of their dic-tates.

But I am no longer a fighting man, so Iwill reinterpret their interpretations asbeing all for the better, even though theyare infringing on my backyard style.

They offer their dictates “to keep waterclean, maintain natural beauty and preventerosion of your shore”. . .

It’s also “to minimize use of fertilizer andencourage growth of native plants. toattract butterflies, songbirds, fish and otherwildlife” . . .

Etc. Don’t remove vegetation, place rocks or

sand along a shore, grade the lot or alterthe shoreland without a permit fromSherburne County. You will also need apermit from the DNR, the county contin-ues.

A permit would cost $100 for a minorproject.

Failure to obtain a permitprior to starting a proj-

ect can result in over$6,250 in after-the-fact fines, fees andmitigation.

Governmentdoes get the last

word, right?Meanwhile, if you

are in the mood for arain garden or shoreland

buffer, a grant might be avail-able to you.

For more details, contact the good folksat the planning and zoning administration,763-765-4450.

(P.S. This spring I will be transplantingseeds from about 200 milk weed pods har-vested last fall onto adjacent sites in thefront of my township property. Those arefor the Monarch butterflies. We do need tohelp our Monarchs. They’re gorgeous -and we’re losing them.)

Gary W.MeyerEditor


Products accepted include: Adhesives, Aerosols, Automotive Chemicals (No Motor Oil), Car Batteries, Cleaners, Fuels (Gasoline, Diesel, Etc.), Fluorescent Bulbs (limit 10 bulbs per vehicle), Garden Chemicals, Mercury, Mothballs, Paints, Poison, Pool/Spa Chemicals, Roofing Tar, Sealers, Solvents.

Products not accepted include: Appliances, Asbestos Containing Items, Business Waste, Commercial Waste, Demolition Debris, Drywall Compound, Electronics,Explosives, Furniture, Household Garbage, Medical Waste, Motor Oil, Filters, Anti-Freeze, Pharmaceutical Waste, Tires, Unknown Items, NO DRUMS.

May 5th & 6th 3pm-6pm at Sherburne County Fairgrounds (Enter Across From YMCA)May 7th 8-11am at Sherburne County Fairgrounds (Enter Across From YMCA)May 12th from 11am-1pm at Baldwin Town Hall, 30239 128th St, PrincetonMay 12th 3pm-6pm at Sherburne County Public Works, 12950 7th Ave. S., ZimmermanMay 19th from 3pm-6pm at Becker Public Works Bldg., 12002 Morris St. SEJune 23rd from 11am-1pm at Santiago Town Hall, 16655 20th St.June 23rd from 3pm-6pm at Clear Lake Fire Hall (Empty Lot NE of Fire Hall)Aug. 25th & 26th 3pm-6pm at Sherburne County Fairgrounds (Enter Across From YMCA)Aug. 27th from 8am-11am at Sherburne County Fairgrounds (Enter Across From YMCA)Sept. 10th from 3pm-6pm at KJ’s Refuge Bar & Grill, 26211 184th St SW, Orrock

2014 SHERBURNE COUNTY HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION EVENTS

For questions or directions, please contact John Exner, Sherburne County Zoning, 763-765-4466 or email [email protected] • www.co.sherburne.mn.us/zoning/sw/hhw.php

Events are FREE for allSherburne County Residents

(I.D. Required)

Unwanted Agricultural Pesticides? Pre-registered farmers may bring their unwanted agricultural pesticides to these collection events for free disposal. For transportation planning purposes, pre-registration is required by calling John Exner at 763-765-4466 to inventory the amount of agricultural pesticides being delivered for disposal.

USED Motor OIL Disposal Used Oil, Oil Filters & Anti-Freeze may be delivered to one of seven disposal locations established throughout the County. Visit www.eastsideoilcompanies.com/recycling/ to find a used oil collection site near you.

(Submitted by Minnesota Dept. of Commerce)

Before embarking on home energyimprovements or remodeling, especiallymajor projects, the Minnesota Departmentof Commerce strongly recommends hav-ing an advanced home energy assessment.An assessment, or energy audit, of howyour house is functioning can help youdecide what needs fixing or replacing. Afollow-up inspection after the work hasbeen completed can help document theenergy savings.

An energy assessment will identifysome simple low-cost measures you cantake, such as weather-stripping doors, andit can help prioritize more expensive butcost-effective measures, like adding insu-lation and air-sealing or replacing a heat-

ing system. Analyzing the operation andinteractions of the various components ofthe home upfront can save in the long run.For instance, consider an energy assess-ment before replacing major equipmentsuch as a furnace or boiler. Determiningand addressing air leakage, insulation, andother issues can help to correctly size anew heating system and ensure that it willwork as efficiently as possible.

An advanced energy assessment shouldinclude the following:

A review of energy bills to help assesshome performance and identify savingsopportunities.

A blower-door test to determine air leak-age.

Infrared scans to detect insulation levelsand sources of air leaks.

Efficiency and safety testing for com-bustion appliances.

A thorough visual inspection for attic,wall, crawlspace, foundation, basement,window, door, and roof problems.

Contact your gas or electric utility toarrange an advanced energy assessment.More comprehensive assessments areavailable from private contractors special-izing in comprehensive home performancereviews. Advanced energy assessmentsrange in cost from about $100 to severalhundred dollars, depending on the level ofdetail. An energy assessment will be yourfirst step to saving energy and savingmoney on your utility bills.

For more information on home energyassessments and energy-saving improve-ments, check out the “Home Envelope”

consumer guide on the Division of EnergyResources website.

Minnesota Energy Tips is providedtwice a month by the MinnesotaDepartment of Commerce, Division ofEnergy Resources. Contact the division’sEnergy Information Center [email protected] or 800-657-3710with energy questions.

Commerce recommends an advancedhome energy assessment before makingmajor home improvements, upgrades


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Article by StatePoint MediaOne of the simplest ways to make a big

impact on your home’s exterior is withyour front door. But if you are tired of theold standards colors, you’re not alone --experts predict bolder trends this year.

Exuberant hues will be popular this yearas a way for homeowners to show theworld their energy.

For those going for a classic feel, colorsthat are vibrant, yet at the same time, offer

comfort, warmth and reliability will reign.For homeowners looking to express their

“colorful selves,” consider selecting apaintable fiberglass door with a smoothfinish. For example, those from Therma-Tru Classic-Craft Canvas Collection andPulse, feature clean lines, crisp angles andattractive glass configuration options, andare ideal for adding personal expression toa home.

The top five door colors for the "exuber-

Article by StatePoint MediaLooking to add value to your home and

make it more sellable in the future? Whilelittle fixes here and there can help a bit --there is one single upgrade that can makea huge impact -- a new roof.

To get the best return on your invest-ment possible, experts say there are a fewthings to take into consideration.

A roof that will add to the curb appeal ofyour home, as well as withstand wear andtear, is always an instant winner withpotential homebuyers.

Insights into what to look for in a roof:Durability

Think back on the past several years.What trials has your current roof faced?

Protect your home by opting for roofingthat’s resistant to the natural disasters andeveryday weather to which your home ismost susceptible.

With an impact- and fire- resistant roofthat’s virtually maintenance-free, you

won’t need to fret whenyou watch the weatherreport. Pair those featureswith a long-term warrantyand you even may be eli-gible for a significant ratebreak on your insurancepremium.

Curb AppealWhen it comes to form

vs. function, form oftenwins out when it comes topotential homebuyers.After all, the power offirst impressions cannotbe overstated and a roof isone of the first things people see whenthey look at your home. Luckily, a high-quality roof can also make a big visualimpact.

You may only be accustomed to woodor slate roofing. But there are alternativesto natural products that offer the same

authentic look without the problematicassociated maintenance.

For example, DaVinci Roofscapes man-ufactures award-winning synthetic slateand shake roofing that replicates hand-split real cedar shakes and natural slate.Each composite roof shingle is light-

weight, impervious to freeze and thawcycles, impact resistant, virtually mainte-nance-free, color fade resistant, and ratedClass A for fire retardance, wind resist-ance to 110 miles per hour, and is backedby a 50-year limited warranty. More infor-mation can be found atwww.DaVinciRoofscapes.com.

Energy EfficiencyBy seeking out an ENERGY STAR

qualified synthetic roofing material, youcan improve your entire home’s energyefficiency, as well as reduce the carbonfootprint of your home. Look for eco-friendly roof tiling designed to reflect sun-light and heat away from your home andreduce your cooling load.

For a home upgrade with a major returnon investment, consider taking advantageof the season and give your roof a freshmakeover.

How your roof can save you money and help you sell your home


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Article by StatePoint MediaOne of the simplest ways to make a big

impact on your home’s exterior is withyour front door. But if you are tired of theold standards colors, you’re not alone --experts predict bolder trends this year.

Exuberant hues will be popular this yearas a way for homeowners to show theworld their energy.

For those going for a classic feel, colorsthat are vibrant, yet at the same time, offer

comfort, warmth and reliability will reign.For homeowners looking to express their

“colorful selves,” consider selecting apaintable fiberglass door with a smoothfinish. For example, those from Therma-Tru Classic-Craft Canvas Collection andPulse, feature clean lines, crisp angles andattractive glass configuration options, andare ideal for adding personal expression toa home.

The top five door colors for the "exuber-

New color trends in home exteriorsant homeowner" in 2014 include:• Capri: A tropical blue that wakes up nat-ural woods and neutral surroundings, thishue adds a splash of energy.• Raucous Orange: This color demandsattention with its energetic tone and makesthe perfect punctuation point for homeswith a modern look.• Dynamo: This flirty violet hue instantlyupdates traditional color schemes for atrendier home front.• Relic Bronze: A deep, almost brown mus-tard color, “Relic Bronze” reflects agedbeauty.• Quixotic Plum: This sophisticated deeppurple is where trendy meets timeless.

The top five door colors for those fol-lowing the more classic trend of comfortinclude:• Georgian Bay: Brighter than dark navy,this step-above reserved blue is a trustedcolor when it comes to the welcomingmessage it sends to family and friends.• Show Stopper: Like classic red at dusk,“Show Stopper” adds a touch of mystery tothis bright hue. A slight spin on traditionalred, this color warmly welcomes people to

a home.• Polished Mahogany: The deep, rich shadeof brown has a staying power that travers-es trends and captures a solid feeling forhomeowners.• Classic French Grey: Stepping out of theshadows to stand on its own, this cool, neu-tral grey will continue to rule the palette in2014.• Gulfstream: This bright, modern blue hasan of-the-moment appeal. At the sametime, it still feels rooted in somethingfamiliar and nostalgic for homeowners.

Whether you follow new trends or stickto tradition, don’t forget to take your entirehome’s exterior into consideration. Fromroof to door, a “top down” approach canhelp you pick color combinations that areeye-pleasing and flow naturally to createcurb appeal.

This year, don’t conform or be bored.With a paintable door, you can make freshupdates as often as you like.


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Submitted ArticleConsumers should beware of insulation contractors

who offer to insulate attics without checking for andsealing attic air leaks. If the offer to insulate does notinclude sealing air leaks, then the contractor is in viola-tion of the Minnesota energy code, which says “Atticinsulation may not be installed unless accessible atticbypasses have been sealed.”

Before building science demonstrated the role that airleaks play in energy loss, it was commonly believed thatinsulation was enough to stop heat flow through a homeor building. Although insulation slows heat transfer, it iseasily compromised by air flow. The only way to stopthis air movement—and associated heat loss—is byeliminating the air leaks between the inside of the houseand the outside. First step to tightening one’s home:Identify air leaks and seal them.

Adding insulation is a great way to reduce the amountof energy that you use, but it only reduces energy costsif it is installed per the manufacturer’s instructions andin conjunction with air sealing activities.

Consumers should conduct careful research beforeinvesting in any energy-efficiency technology orimprovement and before signing with a contractor. Getat least three bids. Utility companies and nonprofit ener-gy groups may have contractors they recommend, andutilities may offer consumer rebates for insulation work.Get references and check sources like the BetterBusiness Bureau of Minnesota (651-699-1111 or 1-800-646-6222) to see if there are any complaints or actionsagainst contractors.

For more information on insulation and other energy-efficient measures to improve your home, contact theMinnesota Department of Commerce, Division ofEnergy Resources (DER) at 800-657-3710 or 651-539-1882 or visit www.energy.mn.gov. DER provides a freehome energy guide called Home Envelope with detailedinformation about air sealing and insulation, savingenergy, and selecting a contractor.

Beware the insulationcontractor who doesnot include air sealing


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Take convenience & safety to a whole new level with the LiftMaster® 8550. The reliable, integratedBattery Backup System guarantees access in & out of your garage, even when the power is out. Thesafety and security features will continue to operate as well, ensuring your family is protected in apower failure. And because it features soft start & slow stop to reduce noise when it operates, it isperfect for homes with a room above the garage. Exp. June 30, 201

Both models equipped with built-in MyQ® technology, enabling you to closeyour garage door or turn lights on or off using a smartphone or computer– from anywhere in the world. LiftMaster® internet accesory required.

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(Submitted by Minnesota Dept. of Commerce)

Are you planning an energy efficiencyimprovement project or a new renewableenergy system, or have you recently com-pleted a project? You may be eligible forincentives to help pay for or finance thoseprojects.

Check out the Database of StateIncentives for Renewables & Efficiency(DSIRE), the most comprehensive sourceof information on financial incentives and policies that support renewables andenergy efficiency in the United States.

DSIRE includes up-to-date information

on:·Federal tax credits·Federal grant and loan programs·State loan programs·State incentive programs·State sales and property tax incentives·Utility rebate, grant, and loan programs

For instance, at DSIRE you can learnabout the 30 percent federal ResidentialRenewable Energy Tax Credit (goodthrough 2016) or the Residential EnergyEfficiency Tax Credit of up to $500 forenergy purchases made from 2011-2013.DSIRE has information on the new 10-year $250 million Made in Minnesota

Solar Incentive Program for new solarelectric and solar thermal installations.

The database provides a long list ofMinnesota utilities that offer rebate pro-grams to residential and commercial cus-tomers. Virtually every utility in thestate—the large investor-owned utilitiesand the municipals and cooperatives—pro-vides incentives on a range of energy-sav-ing efforts, including energy audits, airsealing and insulation, new high efficientheating and cooling systems, and efficientlighting.

Need financing for an energy-savingproject? Check out the low-interest Fix-Up

Loan offered by Minnesota Housing, aswell as other loan programs.

The DSIRE website iswww.dsireusa.org. The MinnesotaDepartment of Commerce, Division ofEnergy Resources also offers financialresource information.

Minnesota Energy Tips is providedtwice a month by the MinnesotaDepartment of Commerce, Division ofEnergy Resources. Contact the division’sEnergy Information Center [email protected] or 800-657-3710with energy questions.

DSIRE is go-to source on incentives for energy efficiency, renewable energy projects


www.MNsota.com • 763-262-0010Jeff Nagorski, CRS, CNA, GRI • [email protected] Your Real Estate Search Here! • No Buyers Fees.

LISTLOCAL!

Submitted ArticleWhether addressing air leak-

age and insulation issues,replacing your heating or ACsystem, or installing a solarenergy system, selecting a con-tractor for a home energyimprovement job should betreated like any major purchase:Be precise about the job expec-tations and the products andservices being purchased and bediligent in checking the creden-tials and integrity of your con-tractor.

Identify several potentialhires for your job via usualsources such as the Internet,Yellow Pages, word of mouth,friends, professional associa-tions, etc., and get bids from atleast three contractors.

Check with the MinnesotaDepartment of Labor andIndustry at www.dli.mn.gov tomake sure the contractoris licensed (if licen-sure is required) andcheck with theBetter BusinessBureau to see ifthere are any com-plaints or actionsagainst the contractor.Get references and checkout online consumer rat-ing services to learn whatothers have to say about par-ticular contractors.

Tips on bids and contracts:Only review bids that are in

writing and include detailedinformation about the project.

Be sure you are getting whatyou expect.

Don’t be misled by “sales” or“deals” that are available “for a

limited time only.”Contractors should apply for

permits and are responsible formeeting building codes andarranging inspections.

Learn about the “Three-DayCooling Off Law” that givesyou the right to cancel within 72hours of signing a contract.Don’t provide a check or downpayment until this period hasended.

Require lien waivers from allsuppliers and subcontractors.

Make sure the job is complet-ed, including all inspections andcleanup, before making finalpayment.

Selecting a contractorfor home energyimprovement projects


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(Submitted by Minnesota Dept. of Health)

Asbestos Awareness aims to make peo-ple aware that asbestos is still a problem.

Each year in the United States, 2,000-3,000 people are diagnosed with a deadlyform of lung disease caused by exposure toasbestos and 10,000 Americans die eachyear from all asbestos-related diseases.While most exposures to asbestos occur inthe workplace, many victims of asbestosdisease were exposed in their own homesand didn’t know it.

The Minnesota Department of Health(MDH), working with the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),is increasing its efforts to make peopleaware of the dangers of asbestos exposure.

“Increased awareness of asbestos in ourhome and work environments is importantso that parents, health care providers,housing authorities, building and construc-tion interests, educators and others canwork together to prevent exposure,” saidMinnesota Health Commissioner Dr. EdEhlinger.

Asbestos has been used in thousands ofproducts because of its strength and flexi-bility, acoustical properties and resistanceto heat, chemicals and electricity. Whenbuilding materials that contain asbestos aredisturbed, asbestos fibers can become air-borne in the home or workplace. Breathingin asbestos fibers over a long period cancause serious illness, including malignantlung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.Many symptoms of asbestos-related dis-eases do not appear for 20 or more years,making it difficult to diagnose.

“For these reasons, we want

Minnesotans to know that if they are goingto renovate their home or commercialproperty, they need to find out if existingbuilding materials contain asbestos so itcan be dealt with safely and properly,” saidDan Locher, asbestos and lead complianceprogram supervisor for MDH.

In Minnesota, there are about 1.4 millionhomes built before 1981 that could haveasbestos in a variety of building materials:textured ceilings, floor and ceiling tiles,linoleum, boiler and pipe insulation, ductwrap insulation and seam tape, sheetrock,plaster, roofing felt, shingles, and exteriorslate siding. Commercial and public build-ings of approximately the same age rangecould have asbestos in similar buildingproducts. The only way to know for sure ifyou have asbestos is to have buildingmaterials tested. Asbestos inspections mustbe done by a certified asbestos inspector.Similarly, handling or removal of asbestos-containing materials should be done by alicensed asbestos abatement contractor.“Trying to do the work yourself could putyou, your family and the public at risk,”Locher said. For information on how tofind a qualified asbestos inspector or con-tractor, visit the MDH website at:http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/asbestos/homeowner/howhire.html.

MDH has developed factsheets and edu-cational materials that provide guidance ontesting, remediation and proper manage-ment of asbestos-containing buildingmaterials. They can be obtained from theMDH website athttp://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/asbestos/index.html or by calling 651-201-4620.

Renovating a homeor building? Avoid exposure todangerous asbestos


1600 Hwy. 55 & Co. Rd. 134, Buffalo

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We Service Most Makes & Modelsof Lawn & Garden Equipment!

Servicing:• Zero Turn Residential Mowers• Zero Turn Commercial Mowers• Lawn & Garden Riding Mowers• Walk Behind Mowers

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Building On Or Improving Your Property?Let regional experts Bogart, Pederson & Associates help!

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Article by StatePoint MediaWill you be remodeling your home or

doing any home improvement projectsthis season? Planning ahead and usingnew available technologies can help youdesign and prioritize your updates andprojects.

Get InspiredWhat does the ideal kitchen look like to

you? What does your dream bathroominclude? Whereas those with renovationaspirations may have once scoured homedesign magazines for the perfect idea,clipping photos and filing them away,

new technolo-gies are helpingpeople digitallyorganize thisprocess.

No matterwhat your styleis, finding anexample of the

design you’re going for online can helpyou communicate your vision to the con-tractor or architect doing the work.

And there are many free resourcesavailable to help you in your quest for theperfect look. For example, the NationalKitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) hasa gallery of free ideas that can help youget inspired and free project planners tohelp in every step of the remodelingprocess.

ShareThe major decisions that happen during

the home improvement process are rarelymade by one person alone. It’s all aboutcollaboration between friends, family andprofessionals.

Consider using a free iPad app such asDesignMine to share your design ideas.DesignMine allows you to create person-alized albums and design boards bybrowsing through thousands of high qual-ity photos of exterior and interior spaces

of real homes.These personalized design boards can

then be saved for later additions or sharedwith friends, family and design profes-sionals. Collaborating on ideas cansmoothly transition the project fromdesign to reality.

The most common cause for home proj-ects taking longer and costing more thanbudgeted is lack of planning.Collaborating on ideas with a profession-al from the beginning is key. It can helpyou avoid these extra costs and time asso-ciated with having to make changes in thedesign halfway through the project.

CreateWhen you’re ready to bring your vision

to life, you can find a local service profes-sional.

Whether you remodel your home with afresh look, or return to a classic aesthetic,let modern technology help you design,plan, and create your dream home.

New technology can help with home improvement projects


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STEEL SALES& RECYCLINGWanted: Scrap iron and metal,junk vehicles, aluminum cans.For Sale: New steel, alum.,stainless, trailer parts, customsigns and art.Services: Plasma, shear, brake,saw, rolloff containers.

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Submitted ArticleYou’re ready to paint. You selected a

color, bought the paint and prepped theroom. Now it’s time to get busy, right?Maybe. Before you crack open that paintcan, make sure you have the right tools. Abrush is not a brush. A roller is not aroller. In order to get the job done right,you need the best tools for the job.

Paintbrushes come in a vari-ety of sizes to suit a vari-ety of purposes. Widebrushes work bestfor large, flat sur-faces. Narrowbrushes workbest in small,tight spaces.Generally, thelarger the brush,the less controland precision youwill have.

Along with size, youneed to pay attention to thebrush’s bristles. Synthetic bristleswork best for latex paint. Natural bristleswork best for oil paint. Higher qualitybrushes have flagged bristles. The bristlesare split to hold more paint and spread itmore evenly. Some brushes have taperedbristles, which are good for getting intocorners and grooves.

In addition to brushes, you will proba-bly need a roller or two. U-shaped rollerframes are very sturdy and easy to use.Just insert the cover, and you are ready to

roll. Lamb’s wool covers work best for oilpaint. Synthetic roller covers work bestfor latex paint. Foam covers work for oilor high-gloss latex paint.

Quality, of course, matters. The bestroller covers retain their shape whensqueezed, have no obvious seams andhave very few loose fibers. Nap is impor-tant as well. The smoother the surface you

plan to paint, the shorter the napshould be. A nap of 1/8" to

1/4" works well on wall-board and smooth

plaster, wood andmetal. A nap of3/8" to 1/2" workswell on lightlytextured stucco,concrete andrough wood. A

nap of 3/4" to 1"works well on heavi-

ly textured stucco,concrete block and brick.

Depending upon whereyou are painting, you may even

need a paint pad. Paint pads work great inhard-to-reach places like behind a toilet orradiator. Most are made of plastic foamand suit both latex and oil paint.

Take the time to choose the right toolsfor the job. It could make all the differ-ence in the results, and it could save youvaluable time. Speak to a professional andmake sure you have everything you needto get the job done right.

Paint tools matter


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Article by StatePoint MediaWe are living in the midst of one of the

most exciting eras of television and tech-nology -- from edge-of-your seat actionseries to big game sports. And with moregreat films becoming available at homesooner, and gaming becoming increasing-ly realistic, the need for superior homeentertainment systems is growing.

In fact, U.S. consumers spent $18 bil-lion on home entertainment in 2013,according to recent statistics from TheDigital Entertainment Group.

So if you’re thinking about giving yourhome any upgrades this season, onechange that will increase the enjoyment ofyour family room or living room isimproving your home entertainment sys-tem. There are a number of fun ways toupdate your home entertainment system toensure family movie and gaming nightsare extra exciting:

Fun Ways to Improve YourHome Theater Experience

AmbianceTo get the real movie theater experience,

set up your home theater system in a roomwithout windows, such as a basement orinterior rec room. If that’s not possible,consider a thick set of curtains to com-pletely black out natural light. This willgive your room the right look and feelwhile enhancing the picture quality of yourmovies, shows and games.

When it comes to curtains, framing thescreen with a velvet red, gold or purplecurtain adds a touch of old time theater ele-gance. Consider setting up an automatedsystem that simultaneously dims the lightsand draws back a curtain in front of yourscreen.

If you want to go all out, paint the wallsblack, maroon or another dark color andinstall theater-style seating and red carpet-ing.

Show Time!Whether playing the newest video game

or enjoying a movie in your home theater,remember that bigger is better. Luckily,innovations in projectors are making thema great bet for home use. A slim designthat’s portable and starts up quickly is a

great versatile choice that can be used athome, or on-the-go.

Look for options that are low-mainte-nance and energy-efficient. By opting for ahybrid laser and LED light source for yourprojector, you won’t have to worry aboutbrightness degradation over time as you dowith mercury lamp projectors, which losehalf their brightness after 3000 hours ofuse.

Delight the SensesNow that you have your eyes and ears

covered, consider the rest of your senses.Offer family and friends traditional theatersnacks. To invoke the movie-going, con-sider an old-fashioned popcorn maker.You may also want to stock your rec roomwith a mini fridge so you never need hitpause on your game or movie for your nextbeverage.

With a few tweaks to your space, youcan turn your ho-hum family room into asuperior home theater.


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Submitted ArticleAre you considering a renewable energy

system to help power your home? Are youplanning to add solar panels or perhaps asmall wind system? Perhaps you are think-ing about purchasing green power fromyour utility, but you want to employ yourown clean energy source to increase yourenergy independence and reduceyour carbon footprint?

Taking the step indeveloping your ownrenewable energysystem is anadmirable goaland to help youachieve this goal,the MinnesotaDepartment ofC o m m e r c eDivision ofEnergy Resourcesrecommends thathomeowners firstapply some simple,energy-saving measuresbefore investing in a renew-able energy system. By investingfirst in energy efficiency and energy con-servation up front, you can lessen yourenergy demand, which will reduce the sizeof the investment needed for your renew-able energy system and optimize thereturns on your system.

Energy improvements such as air-seal-ing, adding insulation, and replacing orrepairing home heating and cooling sys-

tems are some of the best energy-savinginvestments. An advanced energy assess-ment of your home is a good first step andcan determine your home’s energy per-formance. It can identify what needs fix-ing, what needs upgrading, and what needsreplacing. It will identify some simple low-cost measures you can implement, such as

weather-stripping doors, and it willpoint out other cost-effective

measures.Minnesota utilities pro-vide advanced energy

assessments, andmany offer discount-ed audits andrebates for energyi m p r o v e m e n t s( v i s i twww.dsireusa.org).Energy assessments

are also provided bynonprofit community

groups, auditors listedby the Minnesota

Building PerformanceAssociation, and private con-

tractors.After you implement those basic energy

efficiency measures, then explore whatrenewable energy system is feasible foryour home.

For more information on home energyassessments and energy-saving improve-ments, check out the “Home Envelope”energy guide on the Division of EnergyResources website.

Before installingrenewables, do basicenergy efficiency

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New Siding, Roofing & Windows

10% Project DiscountUp to $500 total discount, minimum order of $3,000. Validonly for new roofing, siding and/or window orders placed by May 30. Not valid on new construction or remodeling.

Limit one coupon per household.

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Article by StatePoint MediaWhat's growing on your windows? If you have

wood windows, or even dirty window sills, theanswer could be mold.

When materials in the home, such as woodwindow frames or wood window sills, come incontact with moisture for an extended period oftime, mold can grow. The key is the presence ofan organic food source.

And mold growth can be hazardous to yourhealth, causing respiratory problems and allergicreactions. So how do you reduce your home’srisk for mold?• You may see your windows “sweat” during thewinter or summer months because of varyinghumidity levels inside the home. Without properventilation, moisture can accumulate on win-dows and walls from daily household activitiessuch as hot showers, boiling water and openingdishwashers after a cleaning cycle. Use ventila-tion fans and dehumidifiers to minimize conden-sation and help reduce humidity in the home.• If your windows have major air leaks, don’tclose properly or are failing to act as a solid bar-rier to the environment, then it’s time to replacethem. Opt for vinyl window frames, such asthose from Simonton Windows, which won’t

provide an organic food source for mold. • Keep window frame surfaces clean. Even if tinyparticles of organic debris are found on or aroundthe surfaces of a vinyl window in a moisture-richarea, you could potentially find mold growth.What makes up this debris? It can be anythingfrom fragments of pollen to animal dander toinsect pieces to normal household dust.• Reduce the chance of condensation in yourhome. Use ceiling fans, particularly in thekitchen and bathroom to increase ventilation.Leave interior room and closet doors open.Consider reducing the number of house plants inyour home.• If your blinds or window coverings are closedall the time, condensation can get “trapped” inbetween the window treatments and the win-dows, creating a damp environment that mayencourage mold growth. Routinely open windowcoverings to increase ventilation near windows.Additionally, ensure air vent deflectors areplaced on floor vents to reroute air into the roomrather than straight up against a window.

While installing vinyl windows in the home isa smart start, homeowners also have to do theirpart -- keep the home well ventilated and cleanduring all seasons to reduce mold.

What every homeownerneeds to know about mold and windows


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47.206 subs 3 and 4.not an offer to lend. Any such offer may only be made pursuant to Minn Sts.Subject to income and special qualifications and credit approvals. This isor other risk factors. See us for additional information. Limited time offerfactors of the loan which could include the credit score, loan to value ratio,are mandated fees some borrowers are required to pay based on certain*“Origination Fees” does not include Loan Level Price Adjustments, which

not an offer to lend. Any such offer may only be made pursuant to Minn Sts.

Subject to income and special qualifications and credit approvals. This is.or other risk factors. See us for additional information. Limited time offer

factors of the loan which could include the credit score, loan to value ratio,are mandated fees some borrowers are required to pay based on certain*“Origination Fees” does not include Loan Level Price Adjustments, which

For more informationcontact CINDY HEATON [email protected]

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Article by StatePoint MediaImpressions count when visitors arrive

at your home’s front door. It’s the first andlast space they see, and it has the power tomake a positive or negative impression.

This season, consider an easy, cost-effective home improvement project thatcan add value to your home and boost curbappeal -- updating the main door and entryof your home.

Upgrade the DoorStart with the basics. Evaluate the look

and condition of the front door to deter-mine if it needs to be replaced. A front doorshould have good energy efficiency fea-tures, a snug fit to the frame, and anappealing color.

While wood was once the most popularmaterial for doors, homeowners are shift-ing to alternatives. And for good reason --a secure fiberglass door, can resist dentingand scratching, is easy to maintain, is ener-gy efficient and can help keep your homequiet. Smooth fiberglass finishes are avail-able for painting along with a variety ofwoodgrain finishes that have the look ofwood, but all the benefits of fiberglass.

Trim the DoorConsider transforming a ho-hum home

entry into a stylish entryway in less than anhour. With a door surround kit, you can

accessorize your entryway in variousarchitectural styles. Available inCraftsman, Colonial, Stone and Empirestyles, each kit offers weather-resistantpolyurethane pieces that resist rotting,warping, cracking, insects, moisture andpeeling.

The kits include trim, such as pilasters,crossheads and keystones, and are adynamic and quick way to enhance anentry door.

As an alternative to a kit, you can orderdurable pilasters and pediment pieces indi-vidually. This allows you to select fromdozens of decorative pediment designs totop off your door, such as a sunburst, ramshead or peaked cap.

Add Some FlairTo complete the look of your warm and

inviting entryway, don’t forget to stain orpaint your door to complement yourhome’s exterior, as well as select decora-tive or privacy glass for the doorlites andsidelites. Next step, add some potted plantsand a colorful welcome mat and you’vetransformed the look of your home entry-way.

With a few easy upgrades, you can giveyour home a fresh new look that will leavea lasting impression.

Ways to Make Your Home’sEntryway Stand Out


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Dear Homeowner:My name is Lucas Stefano and I’m the localbranch manager for College Works Painting in thegreater Twin Cities residential area this year. I ama Business Management major at the University ofMinnesota Twin Cities. In my free time I enjoysports, soccer, photography , being with familyand friends and outdoor activities. This summer I

will be managing crews of skilledpainters who will do high qualityexterior paint jobs for an affordableprice. Make your stand out amongstthose in the area by letting me paintit! Please give me a call for a freeestimate or if you would like to know more.Remember, a quality job at an affordable price isjust a phone call away! Thank you for your timeand I look forward to hearing from you!

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Documents

Spring Guide 2014